Just over a month into the 2025 season, the Philadelphia Phillies have embarked on what they hope will be a campaign ending in a deep postseason run—ideally capped by a World Series appearance. While much of the attention remains on the team’s rollercoaster start, it’s not too early to look toward the offseason.
This spring, fans were hopeful the Phillies would lock up key veterans with contract extensions—especially catcher J.T. Realmuto and designated hitter Kyle Schwarber, both entering contract years. But no deals were reached. And although there’s always room for optimism, it’s unlikely those extensions materialize midseason. The most recent update on Schwarber didn’t sound promising, and despite mutual interest in staying long term, Realmuto and the front office couldn’t find common ground either.
Phillies Will Still Be Paying J.T. Realmuto Deferred Money After 2025
Realmuto remains a crucial part of the Phillies’ championship-contending core. Whether or not he returns in 2026, the team will still be paying him through at least 2027, thanks to deferred salary payments built into his contract. It’s not the kind of eye-popping deferral structure that made headlines during the Dodgers’ spending spree, as noted by ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez, but it’s still money the Phillies will be accounting for.
Now in the final year of his five-year, $115.5 million deal, Realmuto is the fifth-highest paid player on the Phillies’ roster this season with a $23.1 million average annual value. Once the contract expires, he’s owed $5 million annually in both 2026 and 2027. Fortunately for the front office, the deferrals are unlikely to create major issues with the luxury tax.
Realmuto played just 99 games in 2024 due to a knee injury—his lowest total in a full season since joining the Phillies, excluding the pandemic-shortened 2020. He still managed a .266 batting average and a .751 OPS, though his counting stats understandably dipped. This year, he started slow, hitting .214/.313/.321 with one home run and six RBIs in the first three weeks. But since April 18, he’s found his rhythm, batting .283/.309/.472 with three home runs and 12 RBIs.
If he stays healthy, Realmuto has a legitimate shot at reaching the 20-homer mark for the third time as a Phillie. Encouragingly, he’s also shown renewed aggression on the bases, going 4-for-4 in stolen base attempts.
Realmuto’s days as a 6.7 fWAR player who drew MVP votes in 2022 may be behind him, but he remains a workhorse and a stabilizing presence behind the plate. His handling of the pitching staff is still elite, and for now, there’s no clear successor waiting in the wings.
While 2025 could be Realmuto’s final season in Philadelphia, the team would likely be open to paying more than just the $5 million in deferred money—if the terms are right. For now, his value to this roster remains undeniable.
